Senna

A documentary on Formula 1 racing is about the last thing I think a lot of people would expect to call 'moving'. And yet "Senna" is a profoundly moving and stirring insight into the heart of a very special man indeed. Sure the film paints it's titular driver to a near Messiah-like status, but it is done with such fervor and conviction, that it is often hard to not get swept up with it's energy and vibrancy. And I don't even like Formula 1. That is perhaps the films biggest strength; in that those who get droopy eyed just thinking about those great hulking engines doing endless loops on a rainy Sunday on the TV, will find there is much to enjoy here. Director Asif Kapadia wisely sticks to the life and times of the man, so when those racing scenes are dispersed, they fold naturally within the narrative and serve to forward the story. They are also edited impeccably. Culled from an endless ream of interviews and track footage, the film makers did a stunning job of paring it all down to the basics. It is comprised entirely of archival material with some voice over from recently interviewed key figures in the man's life. Indeed, the film may be a documentary but it is easy to forget that when the wealth of footage available is presented so exhilaratingly. Aryton Senna was a very passionate man. He drove with his heart and refused to get drawn into the politics of F1 - sometimes to his own detriment. But while the film shows his genius and skill on the track it also shows the symbol of hope to which he had become to millions of Brazilians in his home country. His triumphant win at an all important race there is an ecstatic high; while his tragic end is felt ever more keenly in the eyes of those young fans whom looked up to him so much. And in his collisions both on and off the track with Alain Prost, the film has it's own fractured dichotomy - adding to the engaging narrative drama. That is what impresses so much about the film; it has a perfectly honed and engaging study of a man, mixed with all the excitement and drive (no pun intended) you could want from a fictional drama. That creates that ever important feeling, that when the tyre screeches have long left your ear, it's stirring sentiments still linger warm inside.

Verdict: 8/10
A fantastically engaging and surprisingly affecting film about a very talented man, taken far too soon. Compelling viewing even for those who aren't gear heads.

"Senna" Trailer